GET ready for the fright of your life! That's the message to 30 daredevils who are preparing to tackle Blackpool's Big One - five times!

The event, in aid of the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust, will see the brave souls go non-stop around the world's tallest and fastest rollercoaster at Blackpool Pleasure Beach on April 30.

One of fearless 30 volunteers is Citizen reporter David Higgerson, who said going on the rollercoaster is much like journalism ... it has its ups and downs!

David said: "I have been on the Big One once before and it wasn't as bad as I thought, but it is supposed to be even more hair-raising this year.

"I think the first drop will be the worst and then it will just get less frightening as I become more numb!"

The event has been organised by the Preston and Fylde support group of the Anthony Nolan Bone Marrow Trust, which was set up in 1974 to operate the world's first register of bone marrow donors.

Now, 23 years on, the register carries 279,000 names.

Fylde support group member Dave Collins said: "This is the second time we have run an event like this.

"Last year there were people from all over the country, but this year is people just from our area.

"I did it last year but I'm sitting out this time. We hope to raise as much money as we can for what is a very worthy cause."

So, does he have any advice for a certain, nervous Citizen reporter?

Dave said: "The first drop is horrifying and absolutely terrifying. After that it gets a little easier, but that first drop is horrendous."

If anyone would like to sponsor David and help the trust, please contact the Citizen newsdesk on (01253) 729081.

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